Owusuwaa Weekly Health Magazine

Special Feature: “The Hidden Effects of Gluten on Health”

📅 Release Date: Friday, September 5th, 2025
📍 Read exclusively at: assumptagh.live

Contents

📰 A Vision Beyond Walls

For Gwen Addo, community health, beauty, and wellness go far beyond the physical space of The Hair Senta. Her mission is to make wellness resources accessible to everyday people, empower the middle class, and inspire young people to see themselves as active contributors to a healthier society.

To Gwen, business is not just about products or services—it is about building a community hub, a space where people feel valued, supported, and connected.

“Cultural exchange is at the heart of this vision,” Gwen explains. “It creates ripples of connection that unite hearts.”

These waves of connection, she believes, are the foundation of social progress. When people feel a true sense of belonging, the path toward wellness becomes easier and more sustainable.

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Gwen Addo: A Catalyst for Change

Business strategist, entrepreneur, and author of Direction
Co-founder of Owusuwaa Weekly Health Magazine
Founder & CEO of Hair Senta, HIBS-Africa, and TLS—The Leading Senta

Her passion lies in transformation—helping individuals unlock their full potential. Through her ventures, Gwen is not just building businesses; she is shaping a movement toward holistic wellness and empowered communities.

This Week’s Guest Feature

Host: Berla Mundi — Award-winning Ghanaian broadcast journalist & TV presenter
Guest: Gwen Addo — Entrepreneur, Wellness Coach & Food Educator

This week, Gwen Addo sits down with Berla Mundi, a remarkable media personality whose accomplishments continue to inspire millions. Together, they lead an engaging and insightful discussion on “The Hidden Effects of Gluten on Health.”

🌱 Good Health is Universal

Health is humanity’s most precious possession—far more valuable than wealth or power.This edition of Owusuwaa Weekly Health Magazine raises an essential question:

👉 What hidden dangers does gluten hold for human health, and how can we make better choices for a healthier future?

From a clear, scientific perspective, Gwen Addo and Berla Mundi combine ambition, wisdom, and passion to raise awareness about gluten’s impact—not only on Ghanaians, but on people across the world.

✨ Don’t miss this inspiring and informative edition..

THE HIDDEN EFFECTS OF GLUTEN ON HEALTH

Gwen Shares Tsasi’s Experience with Gluten:

When I turned 45, I was struggling to find the right formula for my physical strength and blood pressure problems. That’s when I began a transformative health journey. After working with a Dutch nutritionist, I discovered that gluten was at the root of my health challenges.

What Exactly Is Gluten?

Here’s Everything You Need to Know. There’s nothing inherently unhealthy about gluten, but people with certain medical conditions like celiac disease, non-celiac gluten sensitivity, or wheat allergy should avoid it.

Gluten-free diets have become increasingly popular in recent years, especially due to the growing awareness of gluten-related disorders.

In turn, this has fueled a rapid rise in the mainstream availability of gluten-free food options. In fact, the gluten-free food industry was valued at $4.3 billion in 2019

The introduction — and increase in availability — of these products made what was once a difficult-to-stick-to diet much easier to follow.

Although gluten-free diets are more common, gluten does not pose a health risk to the majority of the U.S. population, as less than 1% of it is affected by celiac disease.
.
That said, people with celiac disease, non-celiac gluten sensitivity, and some other conditions must eliminate gluten from their diets to avoid harmful, adverse reactions.

This article reviews everything you need to know about gluten, including what it is, which foods contain it, who may need to follow a gluten-free diet, and how to eat a gluten-free diet.

Food Sensitivities: More Than Digestion

Gluten’s effects on health vary from person to person. For some, it triggers severe reactions such as celiac disease—a serious autoimmune disorder. Others may have non-celiac gluten sensitivity, which can still cause significant health problems.

Beyond the well-known digestive issues like bloating, constipation, or diarrhea, gluten can also contribute to neurological symptoms, mood changes, and impacts on physical strength and blood pressure. These “hidden effects” were exactly what I experienced.

A proper diagnosis from a healthcare provider is essential to confirm whether gluten is the cause of your symptoms and to create the right treatment plan.

Hidden Effects of Gluten

Neurological Symptoms
Gluten can damage nerves (neuropathy), leading to tingling, numbness, burning, or pain in the arms, legs, and feet.
Mood & Energy Changes
Many people report increased anxiety, depression, and overwhelming fatigue when consuming gluten.
Physical Strength & Blood Pressure
Gluten may indirectly affect strength and blood pressure by contributing to inflammation and nutrient malabsorption.
Digestive Issues
While often the first signs, issues such as bloating, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and constant fullness may all be linked to gluten consumption.

What To Do Next

Consult a healthcare professional
Speak with a doctor and nutritionist to determine if gluten is the root cause of your health challenges.
Undergo proper testing
Medical tests can confirm whether you have celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or another condition.
Follow a gluten-free diet
If gluten is identified as the culprit, removing it from your diet is the most effective way to manage symptoms.
Seek professional guidance
Work with a nutritionist to ensure you maintain a balanced, nutrient-rich diet while eliminating gluten.

✅ It’s important to note: while I discovered that gluten was the root of my health challenges, this is a personal experience. Gluten affects everyone differently, and professional guidance is always essential.

THE HIDDEN EFFECTS OF GLUTEN ON HEALTH

Overview

Gluten is a type of protein naturally found in certain grains such as wheat, barley, and rye. It acts as a binding agent, giving dough its elasticity and helping foods hold their shape.

For most people, gluten poses no problem. But for individuals with conditions like celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, it can cause significant health issues, ranging from digestive discomfort to skin reactions.

Gluten is present in common foods like bread, pasta, and cereal, but it can also be found in less obvious products, such as soy sauce, salad dressings, and even some vitamins and supplements.

What is Gluten?

A protein complex: Gluten is made of two proteins—gliadin and glutenin—which create a strong network in dough.

A binder: It works like a natural “glue,” giving baked goods their stretchiness and structure.

Grains That Contain Gluten

Wheat (and its varieties: farro, spelt, durum, semolina)
Barley

Unfortunately, barley contains gluten. About 5-8% of barley is gluten and thus should not be consumed by people with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity.

Gluten can also be found in different whole grains, such as wheat and rye. Gluten is a form of protein that works like glue to help foods get their shape. Gluten can trigger inflammation of the small intestines in people with a medical condition called celiac disease. If you don’t have celiac disease and yet you experience adverse reactions when you take gluten, you may have non-celiac gluten sensitivity.

What is barley?

Barley refers to a cereal grain that is categorised under the grass family. It can be cultivated in both wet and dry environments, and thus it is commonly farmed in India and other parts of the world.

In India, barley is mostly cultivated as an animal feed and to produce beer, while the rest is used for human consumption.

There are several ways to process barley. Examples of barley whole-grain recipes include:

· Hulled barley/whole-grain barley with its outer shell cautiously removed to avoid loss of nutrients. This happens to be the least processed form of barley.

· Pearled barley in which the outer shell is removed and then polished. In this type of barley, more nutrients are lost than in hulled barley.

· Barley flour which is produced by grounding whole grain or pearled barley.

· Barley flakes which looks like oatmeal made from whole grain or pearled barley.

· Barley grits: produced from small pieces of whole-grain or pearled barley.

· Barley malt: produced by soaking and drying barley kernels. They are then allowed to germinate.

Regardless of the type of barley you select, it is easy to cook. All you require are a few cups of water or broth and some simple seasoning.

Rye.

Baked goods

Rye flour is most commonly used in a variety of baked goods, such as breads, rolls, pretzels, and even pastas.

When baking with rye flour, traditional all-purpose flour is also usually added to balance out the flavor and lighten the final product, as rye tends to be quite heavy.

Alternatively, rye berries can be cooked and eaten on their own similarly to how wheat berries are eaten. They’re slightly chewy and have a nutty flavor profile.

While rye flour is slightly lower in gluten than some other flours, it must be avoided when following a gluten-free diet (2Trusted Source).

Summary

Rye flour is used in a variety of baked goods from breads to pastas. Due to its gluten content, it should be avoided when following a gluten-free diet.

Triticale (a wheat–rye hybrid)

Why Some People Avoid Gluten

Celiac Disease: An autoimmune disorder where gluten damages the small intestine, leading to nutrient malabsorption.
Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS): Causes symptoms similar to celiac disease (bloating, diarrhea, fatigue) without intestinal damage.
Wheat Allergy: An allergic reaction to wheat proteins, which may trigger rashes, swelling, or breathing difficulties.

Common Sources of Gluten

Baked goods: Bread, pasta, pizza, cookies, pastries.
Processed foods: Seitan, many soy sauces, soups, gravies, and products thickened with wheat flour.
Hidden sources: Gluten may appear in vitamins, supplements, sauces, salad dressings, and even some hair and skin products.

How to Find Gluten-Free Foods

Check labels carefully: Many countries require food products to clearly indicate if they contain gluten.
Look for certifications: Products marked “Certified Gluten-Free” have been tested and verified.
Choose naturally gluten-free foods: Fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, rice, quinoa, buckwheat, and legumes.

✅ Takeaway: Understanding gluten and its hidden sources is the first step toward making informed dietary choices. For those sensitive to gluten, removing it can transform not only digestive health but also overall well-being.

Dialogue for Owusuwaa Weekly Health Magazine

Berla-Mundi (Host):
Good day, dear readers across the world, and welcome to another inspiring edition of Owusuwaa Weekly Health Magazine. I am your host, Berla-Mundi—a celebrated Ghanaian broadcaster, television host, and advocate for youth and women’s empowerment. It’s always a joy to bring meaningful conversations to your screens, especially when it concerns health, wellness, and the future of our communities.

Today, I’m honored to welcome a phenomenal woman whose influence stretches across business, wellness, and empowerment. Our guest is Gwen Addo—a true catalyst for change. She is a business strategist, entrepreneur, and the author of the thought-provoking book “Direction.” She is also the Co-founder of Owusuwaa Weekly Health Magazine, Founder & CEO of Hair Senta, HIBS-Africa, and TLS—The Leading Senta. Gwen’s passion lies in transformation—helping individuals unlock their full potential while shaping a movement toward holistic wellness, food education, and empowered communities.

Gwen, it is such a pleasure to have you here as our special guest for this week’s feature:
“The Hidden Effects of Gluten on Health.”
On behalf of our global readers, welcome to Owusuwaa Weekly Health Magazine.

Berla-Mundi (Host continues):
Now Gwen, many know you as a business strategist, an entrepreneur, and an author. But you’re also the driving force behind health and empowerment initiatives. Would you say you see yourself as a Catalyst for Change—both in business and in wellness?

Gwen Addo (Guest):
Thank you so much, Berla, for such a beautiful introduction. I’m deeply honored to join you and our worldwide readers today.

Good health is universal. Health is humanity’s most precious possession—far more valuable than wealth or power. And that is why I believe platforms like Owusuwaa Weekly Health Magazine are essential, because they raise questions that truly matter.

Berla-Mundi:
What hidden dangers does gluten hold for human health, and how can we make better choices for a healthier future?

Gwen-Addo : From a clear scientific perspective, gluten is a type of protein naturally found in grains such as wheat, barley, and rye. While it acts as a binding agent in food—giving bread its elasticity and pasta its firmness—it can also trigger harmful effects in certain individuals. For people with celiac disease, gluten damages the small intestine, leading to malnutrition, fatigue, and long-term complications. Even beyond celiac disease, research shows that gluten sensitivity may cause digestive discomfort, bloating, headaches, and inflammation in many others.

The hidden danger lies in the fact that gluten is not only in bread or pastries—it is present in countless processed foods, sauces, and even beverages. Without awareness, many consume it daily without realizing the impact on their well-being.

The good news is that education and conscious choices can change this. By exploring gluten-free alternatives—such as quinoa, rice, millet, and sorghum—we can embrace diets that support digestive health, reduce inflammation, and boost overall vitality.

At its heart, the gluten conversation is about more than food—it is about empowering individuals with knowledge to protect their most valuable asset: their health.

Berla-Mundi (Host):
Thank you, Gwen, for breaking it down so clearly. You’ve highlighted something important—that gluten hides in so many foods people eat daily without even realizing it. For many of our readers, especially families who want to protect their children’s health, this can feel overwhelming.

So let me ask: What are some practical tips or first steps families can take if they want to start reducing or eliminating gluten from their diets?

Gwen Addo (Guest):
That’s a wonderful question, Berla. And it’s true—at first, the idea of “going gluten-free” can sound intimidating. But the key is to start small and stay consistent.

Here are three practical steps families can take:

Read Labels Carefully – Many packaged foods contain hidden gluten—things like soups, salad dressings, soy sauce, or even flavored chips. Learning to check ingredient lists is the first line of defense.
Explore Naturally Gluten-Free Foods – Fruits, vegetables, legumes, rice, corn, yam, plantain, and unprocessed meats are naturally gluten-free. Families can build delicious meals around these staples without feeling restricted.
Experiment with Alternatives – Swap wheat flour with almond flour, rice flour, or millet flour. Try gluten-free pasta made from lentils or quinoa. These options are now widely available worldwide.
The goal isn’t just to remove gluten—it’s to replace it with nourishing foods that strengthen the body and support long-term wellness.

Berla-Mundi (Host):
That’s so practical—thank you, Gwen. Now, another big question our readers often ask is about the hidden sources of gluten. You already mentioned sauces and snacks. Could you share a few surprising places where gluten may be hiding, that people might not think about?

Gwen Addo (Guest):
Absolutely. Gluten has a way of sneaking into foods you wouldn’t expect. Some surprising sources include:

Soy sauce and some condiments
Processed meats like sausages, hot dogs, and deli slices
Certain candies and chocolates (they use gluten-based thickeners)
Breakfast cereals (even the “healthy” ones sometimes contain barley malt)
Beverages like beer and malt drinks

This is why awareness is so important. Once families know what to look out for, they can make better choices and avoid unintentional exposure.

Berla-Mundi (Host):
That makes so much sense. Now let me ask you a more personal question, Gwen. You’re a business strategist, a community leader, and also a co-founder of Owusuwaa Weekly Health Magazine. What inspired you to champion a subject like gluten—something many people may overlook, but which has such a powerful effect on health?

Gwen Addo (Guest):
Great question, Berla. For me, it always comes back to transformation. I’ve seen too many people struggle silently with issues like fatigue, skin breakouts, digestive problems, or low energy—never realizing that something as simple as gluten could be a hidden factor.

I believe knowledge is power. If we can educate one person, one family, or one community about making better food choices, then we’re creating a ripple effect. Health is the foundation of everything—without it, we cannot pursue our dreams, build wealth, or even enjoy life fully. That is why this conversation matters so much. Berla, if I may, I’d like to share a personal story that I believe many of our readers can relate to.

The Hidden Effects of Gluten on Health

Gwen Shares Tsasi’s Experience with Gluten

When Tsasi, a friend of mine turned 45, he was struggling to find the right formula for his physical strength and blood pressure problems. That’s when he began his transformative health journey. After working with a Dutch nutritionist, he discovered that gluten was at the root of his health challenges. Food Sensitivities: More Than Digestion.

Beyond the well-known digestive issues like bloating, constipation, or diarrhea, gluten can also contribute to neurological symptoms, mood changes, and impacts on physical strength and blood pressure. These “hidden effects” were exactly what I experienced.

That is why a proper diagnosis from a healthcare provider is essential. Only then can you confirm whether gluten is the cause of your symptoms and create the right treatment plan.

Hidden Effects of Gluten

Neurological Symptoms – Gluten can damage nerves (neuropathy), leading to tingling, numbness, burning, or pain in the arms, legs, and feet.
Mood & Energy Changes – Many people report increased anxiety, depression, and overwhelming fatigue when consuming gluten.
Physical Strength & Blood Pressure – Gluten may indirectly affect strength and blood pressure by contributing to inflammation and nutrient malabsorption.
Digestive Issues – While often the first signs, issues such as bloating, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and constant fullness may all be linked to gluten consumption.

What To Do Next

Consult a healthcare professional – Speak with a doctor and nutritionist to determine if gluten is the root cause of your health challenges.
Undergo proper testing – Medical tests can confirm whether you have celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or another condition.
Follow a gluten-free diet – If gluten is identified as the culprit, removing it from your diet is the most effective way to manage symptoms.
Seek professional guidance – Work with a nutritionist to ensure you maintain a balanced, nutrient-rich diet while eliminating gluten.

Berla-Mundi (Host):
That was incredibly powerful, Gwen—thank you for sharing Tsasi’s experience about his personal journey. I know so many readers around the world will find hope and guidance in this story.

Gwen Addo (Guest):
Thank you, Berla. My message is simple: Good health is universal. When we listen to our bodies, seek professional help, and make informed choices, we not only transform our own lives but also inspire those around us to do the same.

Berla-Mundi (Host):
And that’s the heart of today’s special feature—“The Hidden Effects of Gluten on Health.” To our readers across the globe, thank you for joining us. Remember: your health is your most precious possession, so take care of it wisely.

Gwen Addo (Guest):
It’s been an honor to share this platform. Until next time, let’s all keep striving for wellness, balance, and transformation.Berla-Mundi (Host):
On behalf of Owusuwaa Weekly Health Magazine, I say thank you and goodbye. Stay healthy, stay strong, and we’ll meet again in our next edition.

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